Celebrating Chinese New Year with Food and Drink: A British Guide

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a time of joy, family reunions, and cultural traditions. 

As one of the most significant holidays in the Chinese calendar, it offers a wonderful opportunity to indulge in a feast of symbolic dishes and celebratory drinks. 

Here’s how you can embrace the festive spirit and celebrate Chinese New Year with food and drink in true style.

Understanding the Symbolism of Food

Food plays a central role in Chinese New Year celebrations, with each dish carrying a special meaning tied to prosperity, health, and happiness. 

When planning your menu, consider including these traditional options:

Dumplings (Jiǔozi): Representing wealth and prosperity, dumplings are shaped like ancient Chinese ingots. Fill them with minced pork, prawns, or vegetables, and serve them steamed or pan-fried.

Fish (Yú): The Chinese word for fish sounds like “surplus,” symbolising abundance. Serve a whole fish, but be sure to leave some uneaten to ensure prosperity spills over into the next year.

Longevity Noodles: These unbroken noodles signify long life. Serve them stir-fried or in a broth, but remember not to cut them while cooking or eating.

Spring Rolls: Resembling gold bars, these crispy delights symbolise wealth. Fill them with a mix of shredded vegetables, meat, or seafood.

Sweet Rice Cakes (Niángāo): Made from glutinous rice flour, these sticky cakes represent progress and growth. They can be steamed, pan-fried, or even baked.

Drinks to Complement the Feast

Pairing the right beverages with your Chinese New Year meal can enhance the festive atmosphere. Here are some ideas:

Chinese Tea: Start your celebration with a pot of jasmine, oolong, or pu-erh tea. Tea not only aids digestion but also adds a touch of authenticity to your gathering.

Baijiu: This traditional Chinese spirit is often enjoyed during celebratory toasts. Its strong, distinct flavour is an acquired taste but offers an authentic experience.

Plum Wine: A sweeter, milder option, plum wine pairs beautifully with many Chinese dishes.

Craft Cocktails: Create cocktails inspired by Chinese ingredients. For example, mix gin with lychee juice or muddle ginger with a splash of sparkling water and lime.

Non-Alcoholic Options: Serve fresh fruit juices, such as mandarin or lychee, for a refreshing and family-friendly choice.

Setting the Scene

To fully immerse yourself in the Chinese New Year spirit, pay attention to the ambience:

Decorations: Adorn your dining area with red and gold decorations, as these colours symbolise luck and prosperity. Hang paper lanterns, use red tablecloths, and add some golden accents.

Table Setting: Use traditional Chinese tableware, such as porcelain bowls and chopsticks, to elevate the experience.

Music: Play soft traditional Chinese music in the background to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Sharing the Celebration

Chinese New Year is all about togetherness, so invite family and friends to join the feast. Encourage everyone to learn about the traditions and meanings behind the dishes, fostering a deeper appreciation for the culture.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating Chinese New Year with food and drink is a delightful way to embrace the richness of Chinese culture. Whether you’re hosting a grand dinner party or enjoying a cosy meal at home, these tips will help you create a memorable experience. 

Gong xi fa cai — wishing you a prosperous and joyous New Year!